By Francisco Acedo

Talks are at an advanced stage to secure the services of the central defender, whose deal with current club Wolfsburg expires in June.

The Portuguese stopper rejected the German champions' offer to extend his stay in the Bundesliga and, despite reported interest from the Premier League sides, the 28-year-old has chosen to head to La Liga.

The former Porto defender had been set to move to Spain in the summer but a proposed transfer to Real Zaragoza unexpectedly collapsed.

But he finally looks like getting his move with Valencia, with his agent Jose Caldeira saying the decision was influenced as it is a World Cup year.

Confirming talks are at an advanced stage, Caldeira told Superdeporte: "The choice lies with the player and it is very clear that his destiny lies in Spain."

He added: "Ricardo has decided to play in Valencia because La Liga could be excellent for his presence in the national Portugal squad."